Offshore Fishing Charter in Florida
St. Petersburg | Tampa | Clearwater
Sun rising over the Gulf, the air rich with the scent of salt and the hum of engines cutting across flat water — that’s your morning here in St. Petersburg. At Reel Coquina, we don’t just go offshore — we go where the action is. Departing from O’Neill’s Marina near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, we’re positioned minutes from Tampa Bay and Clearwater and within easy reach of the Gulf of Mexico’s most productive reefs and ledges.
Whether it’s a half-day sprint or a full-day deep-water adventure, we’re chasing red snapper, grouper, king mackerel, amberjack and more — with strategy, speed and local know-how. Each trip is fine-tuned to tides, weather and seasonal runs so you spend less time waiting and more time harnessing the fight.
Why Anglers Choose Reel Coquina
Captain Pablo Koch-Schick isn’t just your guide — he reads the Gulf like a long-time friend. His instinct has earned him features in Florida Sport Fishing magazine.
There’s fishing, and then there’s fishing well. Captain Pablo Koch-Schick doesn’t just chase what’s biting; he studies the Gulf like it’s an old friend, how the light shifts, how the current runs, and how each season finds its own rhythm. Every Gulf of Mexico fishing trip he runs is shaped by that instinct which is a skill that’s earned him features in Florida Sport Fishing magazine!
• Fully-permitted for both reef and pelagic species, granting access to rich bottom structure and open-water hot zones.
• Two premium vessels: a 29′ Orion (up to 4 guests) for swift near-reef action, and a 37′ Sea Vee (up to 4) for deep-sea comfort including shade, seating and private bathroom.
• Bait, tackle, chairs, ice, cleaner — we handle everything so you can focus on the fight and the photo.
From first-time anglers to seasoned fishermen, we’re all about making your Gulf charter effortless, exciting and one you’ll remember long after the salt dries.
With more than 1,500 fishing charters completed, Captain Pablo Koch-Schick brings unmatched local knowledge and skill to every trip — ensuring each guest enjoys a safe, productive, and unforgettable day on the Gulf.
Faith C | Jul 2025
“Captain Pablo and his first mate Noah were awesome and knew the waters and fish well. We caught Maui, blackfin tuna, and a few red snapper.”
Mark D | June 2025
“We chartered two boats with Pablo and Carlos. We had a blast. While we didn’t catch “the Big one”, Pablo fought hard to put us on the fish. We did catch several keepers and followed Pablo’s recommendation to take our catch to the Island Grill where they cooked our catch! The whole day was great. Pablo was funny, engaged and also all about business. I would highly recommend him for your next St. Petersburg, FL near shore or off shore fishing trip.”
What You’ll Catch Offshore
Every trip offshore brings something different. One day, you’ll fill the cooler with grouper and snapper; the next, you might be chasing amberjack, mahi mahi, or king mackerel across open water. Whether you stay near the reefs or run deep into the Gulf, each trip is tuned to the season and conditions so you spend more time reeling and less time waiting.
Here’s what’s biting most often on our offshore fishing charters:
|
Species |
Best Months |
Type |
Description |
|
Grouper (Red, Gag, Scamp) |
November – March |
Bottom / Reef |
Hard-fighting favorites found near reefs and ledges; prized for their size and taste. |
|
Snapper (Mangrove, Vermilion, Red) |
May – October |
Reef |
Consistent year-round action with great table quality and exciting hooksets. |
|
King Mackerel & Spanish Mackerel |
April – May, October – November |
Pelagic |
Fast, aggressive, and thrilling to catch during spring and fall migrations. |
|
Mahi Mahi, Amberjack & Blackfin Tuna |
May – September |
Pelagic |
Warm-water powerhouses known for their strength, color, and acrobatics. |
|
Wahoo & Sailfish (Seasonal Surprises) |
Variable |
Pelagic |
Trophy catches that show up unexpectedly in peak offshore conditions. |
Not finding what you’re looking for?
📞 Call or text Captain Pablo anytime at (404) 438-8732 to talk about seasonal catches or custom trips.
Whether it’s your first time offshore or your hundredth, Reel Coquina makes every trip feel effortless. You’ll come back with tired arms, a full cooler, and that unmistakable Gulf grin that only comes from a day well spent on the water.
Charter Options & Fleet
Aboard the Orion 29’ (Up to 4 Guests)
Fast, open, and made for action — perfect for smaller groups or families.
Aboard the Sea Vee 37’ (Luxury Charter, Up to 4 Guests)
When comfort meets performance. Triple Mercury engines, shaded seating, and a private bathroom make this boat ideal for longer deep-sea runs.
Add-On Experiences
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Shark Fishing Charters: High-energy, adrenaline-packed adventures for thrill seekers.
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Inshore Fishing, Sunset & Dolphin Cruises: Relaxed options perfect for families and couples.
Every charter fishing trip runs under full state and federal licensing, so you’re covered the moment you step aboard. The crew monitors bag limits, size rules, and protected species.
Let’s get you on the water!
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of fish will we catch?
Each Gulf of Mexico fishing trip brings a mix of Gulf favorites including grouper, snapper, hogfish, kingfish, amberjack, sharks, and African pompano. Depending on the season, you might also find redfish or a goliath grouper while bottom fishing the reefs, or even a chance at tarpon fishing when conditions line up just right.
Do we keep the fish that we catch?
Yes! Each trip includes fish cleaning and filleting, so every legal catch goes home ready for the grill. The crew handles it all from the cutting board to the cooler so you get to relax and enjoy the ride in.
Do I need a fishing license?
No license needed. Every deep sea fishing charter includes full state and federal coverage for all guests.
What should I bring?
Bring food and drinks (no glass), a hat, sunglasses, towel, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. We provide everything else including bait, tackle, ice, and safety gear.
It’s my first time fishing, can I still join?
Absolutely. The crew loves teaching new anglers. They’ll walk you through everything so your first charter fishing trip feels easy, exciting, and fun.
Where are you located?
We depart from O’Neill’s Marina in St. Pete, just minutes from Tampa Bay, Clearwater, and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.
What happens if the weather is bad?
If the Gulf of Mexico looks rough, we’ll reschedule or refund your deposit. Safety always comes first.
What is your cancellation policy?
Please inform Captain Pablo at least two weeks in advance if there is a change of plans so we can reopen your spot. Weather cancellations are fully flexible.
How many people is the boat able to accommodate?
Each vessel fits up to four anglers, perfect for small groups, couples, or families who like a little space while day fishing.
What does the Reel Coquina crew specialize in?
We specialize in offshore and nearshore deep sea fishing charters, targeting kingfish, hogfish, grouper, and snapper. Each trip is tuned to the season’s best bite, from reef runs to deep dropping out in the blue.
How can I pay, and is a deposit required?
We accept Venmo, PayPal, Square, cash, or check. A $250 deposit holds your date, and the rest is paid after your trip.
Should I tip my crew?
A 20% cash tip is standard and always appreciated. It covers the prep and cleanup that make your trip feel effortless.
Can families join St. Petersburg fishing charter trips?
Of course. Reel Coquina’s charters are built for all ages. Kids love reeling in snapper, and parents enjoy the easy pace and open deck. There’s shade, space, and smiles for the whole family, a wonderful time on the Gulf of Mexico every trip.